Melitoma species.
One of several species that are in the Melitoma clan, that also occurred in Costa Rica.
This bee being was collected by Tim McMahon while on an expedition to that lovely country. The species is currently unknown, at least to us, but note the very long tongue, super characteristic. It appears that most of the Melitomians are specialists on morning glories (Ipomoea) and you can understand why having a long tongue would be particularly useful. Photography by Erick Hernandez.















